Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a common lung disease in which the airflow gets blocked, making it difficult for the individual to breathe. There are two main types of COPD: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. With emphysema, the lungs get damaged over time whereas with chronic bronchitis, the individual has a long-term cough with mucus. Smoking is the leading cause of COPD, although exposure to certain chemicals can also cause this condition. According to MayoClinic.com, certain complications may develop in an individual with one of the two COPD conditions.
Colds and Flu
An individual with COPD is more likely to get frequent colds, according to MayoClinic.com. The person is also prone to getting flu and pneumonia. Since the disease causes difficulty in breathing, additional respiratory infections make the lungs more susceptible to damage. Irreversible damage may occur in the lung tissue when an individual with COPD gets frequent respiratory infections.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is another complication of COPD. The Mayo Clinic reports that the condition may cause high blood pressure in the arteries that bring blood to the lungs. This condition is referred to as pulmonary hypertension.
Heart Attack
Heart attack is also a complication of COPD. MayoClinic.com says that COPD increases the risk of heart disease. The individual may develop arrhythmias, in which the heart beats irregularly. Cor pulmonale may also occur. This is a condition in which swelling occurs in the heart, causing heart failure.
Cancer
Cancer can result from COPD. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals with COPD are more likely to develop lung cancer. This risk is higher in smokers who have chronic bronchitis.
Depression
Depression is a complication of COPD. Individuals with COPD find it difficult to breathe. This prevents them from participating in the activities that they usually enjoy. This is especially true for activities that are physically demanding, such as sports and exercise. COPD is incurable and gets worse with time. This makes the individual feel further depressed and sad as time goes on.
